If you're a graduate looking to get into sales and need to get a feel for the kind of questions employers might ask at interview, then make sure you research these graduate sales interview questions below. These questions and answers are taken from real graduate interviews, and compiled to give you an idea of what to expect and how to prepare your answers.
Example Sales Interview Questions:
1. Why do you want to do sales, and what makes you think you will be successful?
One of the key elements an employer will look for is for someone who is money motivated so make sure they know, in an un-arrogant manner, that your work ethic is financially driven. In terms of personality they will be looking for someone who is very confident and direct who likes to be in a busy, energetic environment - make sure you get this across to your interviewer. They will be looking for someone who has always lead the way among their peers, a natural leader that people listen to as well as very sociable.
Entrepreneurial people are also often sought after in sales as you have to be able to use your own initiative. If you've had previous experience, relate your answer to your love of the buzz, vibrant work atmosphere and competitive nature of the workplace.
Interviewer Expectation: Money motivation, confidence, and understanding of sales dynamics.
Example Answer: "(Situation) During university, I was active in the student fundraising committee. (Task) My role involved persuading local businesses to sponsor our events. (Action) I approached potential sponsors, highlighting mutual benefits and building rapport. (Result) I secured several sponsorships, enhancing our event's success. This experience ignited my passion for sales, where building relationships and achieving targets align with my strengths."
2. Give me an example of when you have worked to a target.
With this question, work experience or something social at university would be best to refer to and try and think of a time when you exceeded expectation, not just met what was required. Remember, your interviewer will only look to dig deeper so try to cover as much detail as possible by being very specific, especially if it's a financial example as this will really impress. Assess yourself as to whether it was difficult to achieve - were you the best in comparison to other people? If so, let them know!
Interviewer Expectation: Evaluate goal-setting, motivation, and achievement orientation.
Example Answer: "(Situation) In my part-time retail job, we had weekly sales targets. (Task) I aimed to exceed my individual sales quota. (Action) I studied product features to better assist customers and proactively engaged with them. (Result) I consistently surpassed my targets, leading to increased commision and recognition from my manager."
3. Give an example of when you've influenced someone to your way of thinking.
Interviewer Expectation: Assess persuasion skills and interpersonal effectiveness.
Example Answer: "(Situation) In a group project, our team was divided on the project's direction. (Task) I believed a particular approach would yield better results. (Action) I presented data and case studies to support my viewpoint and facilitated an open discussion. (Result) The team agreed with my proposal, and we achieved a high grade."
4. What is B2B sales?
Interviewer Expectation: Test understanding of business-to-business sales concepts.
Example Answer: "B2B sales involve transactions between businesses, such as a software company selling to other firms. Unlike B2C sales, B2B focuses on building long-term relationships and understanding complex client needs. I find this appealing as it requires strategic thinking and offers opportunities for meaningful client engagement."
5. How do you feel about making sales calls?
Interviewer Expectation: Gauge comfort with proactive outreach and communication skills. Talk about any experience you have making phone calls in a professional setting.
Example Answer: "(Situation) As a volunteer for a university campaign, I made calls to alumni for donations. (Task) My goal was to secure contributions. (Action) I prepared scripts, anticipated objections, and maintained a positive tone. (Result) I successfully secured several donations, boosting my confidence in making sales calls."
6. Why do you think you will be successful in sales?
Interviewer Expectation: Determine self-awareness and alignment with sales competencies.
Example Answer: "(Situation) Balancing academics and a part-time job taught me time management and resilience. (Task) I aimed to excel in both areas. (Action) I prioritised tasks, stayed organised, and remained adaptable. (Result) I achieved strong academic results and was recognised at work, indicating qualities essential for sales success."
7. How do you move on from rejection?
Interviewer Expectation: Assess resilience and ability to handle setbacks.
Example Answer: "(Situation) I once applied for a competitive internship but wasn't selected. (Task) I sought to understand areas for improvement. (Action) I requested feedback, identified skill gaps, and enrolled in relevant workshops. (Result) I enhanced my profile and secured a similar opportunity later, demonstrating my ability to learn from rejection."
8. Describe a time when you've organised your time to meet demanding targets.
Interviewer Expectation: Evaluate time management and prioritization skills.
Example Answer: "(Situation) During exam season, I also worked part-time. (Task) I needed to manage study and work commitments effectively. (Action) I created a detailed schedule, allocating specific times for study and rest. (Result) I met all academic deadlines and maintained my work performance, showcasing effective time management."
9. How do you handle losing out on a sale?
Interviewer Expectation: Understand coping mechanisms and learning from setbacks.
Example Answer: (Situation) In my retail job, a customer chose not to purchase after a lengthy discussion. (Task) I aimed to understand their decision. (Action) I asked for feedback and reflected on my approach. (Result) I adjusted my sales technique, leading to improved future interactions and sales."
10. How do you build strong relationships with clients and customers?
Interviewer Expectation: Assess interpersonal skills and customer relationship management.
Example Answer: (Situation) At my part-time job, I noticed regular customers appreciated personalised service. (Task) I aimed to enhance their shopping experience. (Action) I remembered their preferences and provided tailored recommendations. (Result) This approach increased customer satisfaction and loyalty, reflecting the importance of relationship-building."